Florida’s diverse ecosystems host various owl species. These nocturnal birds of prey thrive across the state’s varied landscapes, from dense forests to open grasslands.
Common Owl Species Found in Florida
Florida is home to several common owl species.
Great Horned Owl
The Great Horned Owl (Bubo virginianus) is Florida’s largest owl. It is recognizable by its prominent ear tufts and deep hooting vocalizations. Its plumage is mottled grayish-brown, with a pale underside, brown barring, a reddish-brown facial disc, and a white throat patch.
Barred Owl
The Barred Owl (Strix varia) is a large owl with dark eyes and a rounded head, lacking ear tufts. Its plumage is brown with cream-white barring on the upper parts and vertical streaks on its belly. Its distinctive call sounds like “who cooks for you, who cooks for you all.”
Eastern Screech-Owl
The Eastern Screech-Owl (Megascops asio) is a smaller species, measuring 6 to 10 inches tall with an 18 to 24-inch wingspan. It produces a trilling whistle or a whinny-like call, not a screech. These owls display gray or reddish-brown color variations and have small ear tufts and bright yellow eyes.
Burrowing Owl
The Burrowing Owl (Athene cunicularia) is one of Florida’s smallest owls, averaging 9 to 10 inches in height. It is unique for its ground-dwelling nature, long legs, and bright yellow eyes, lacking ear tufts. Florida’s subspecies digs its own burrows for nesting.
Habitats and Behaviors of Florida Owls
Florida’s varied environments support different owl species.
Great Horned Owl Habitat
Great Horned Owls are highly adaptable, inhabiting wooded areas for nesting and roosting, and open fields for hunting. They can be found in forests, suburban areas, and farmlands across Florida. These owls are primarily nocturnal hunters, capturing a wide range of small to medium-sized mammals and birds.
Barred Owl Habitat
Barred Owls frequently reside in dense, mature forests, especially near water sources like swamps and hardwood hammocks. They often nest in tree cavities or abandoned hawk nests, preferring locations with an open understory for hunting. While mostly nocturnal, Barred Owls sometimes hunt during the day, preying on small mammals, birds, and amphibians.
Eastern Screech-Owl Habitat
Eastern Screech-Owls are commonly found in wooded areas, including suburban parks and gardens. They roost in tree cavities during the day and become active at dusk, hunting insects, small mammals, and birds.
Burrowing Owl Habitat
Burrowing Owls prefer open grasslands, prairies, and other treeless areas, including golf courses, airports, and vacant lots. They are often active during daylight hours, seen at their burrows or on low perches. Their diet includes insects, small lizards, frogs, snakes, and rodents.
Observing Florida Owls Responsibly
Observing owls in Florida requires a respectful approach to avoid disturbing them. Maintain a significant distance to prevent causing stress or altering their natural behaviors. Binoculars or a telephoto lens can enhance viewing.
Avoid flash photography, especially at night, as it can disorient and harm an owl’s sensitive eyes. Do not disturb nests or attempt to call owls, as these actions interfere with their breeding and hunting. Never feed owls; human food is unsuitable and can lead to habituation, putting them at risk. Protecting Florida’s owl populations involves minimizing human impact and supporting habitat conservation.